I'd say that its the first block to build the foundation.
Its no secret that Huckabee took everyone by surprise and set Thompson's campaign back on its heels. Totally aided by the media. I'm glad that Thompson has drawn the line in the sand and is ready to duel Huckabee. Then he can convince the independents and libertarians on the way to the convention.
What is very clear is that it is wide open right now and SC is Thompson's opening. We shall see.
Why didn’t Thompson do it last year when Huckabee gave him the chance?
http://www.eyeon08.com/2007/09/11/thompson-turns-down-1-on-1-debate/